Top Summer Activities
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Are you counting the days until your summer vacation on Alabama's Beaches? Did you take time off from work? Did you book a beach condo? Did you invite friends and family to tag along? If you did all that, you are on a roll. Now, what should you do when you get here?
Sit at the beach.
Yes, absolutely. But what else?
Is there anything else to do besides that, you ask?
Yes, a ton.
Best Things to Do This Summer on Alabama's Beaches
Dolphin Cruise
Dolphin Cruise
Time to leave the shore to sail on the water! A dolphin cruise wonderful way to explore the local marine life and waterways. Nothing beats the excitement of spotting a pod of dolphins, and a sunset cruise is a perfect - and peaceful - way to end the day.
Historic Fort Morgan
Historic Fort Morgan
Climb the walls – literally. Walk the grounds of Historic Fort Morgan and imagine the battles that were fought from this very spot. Fort Morgan is a fun way to spend a morning or afternoon. While you're there, stop by the onsite museum for a look at military relics.
The Wharf
The Wharf
Shop. Eat. Meet for coffee. See a movie. Ride on the Ferris wheel. You can do it all here. There is even a light show in the evenings. The Wharf in Orange Beach is a can't-miss stop for those looking for an all-in-one entertainment. During summer, The Wharf hosts lots of free, family-friendly activities on weekdays like movie nights, scavenger hunts, live music, and games.
Biking
Biking
Rent a bike or use the Gulf State Park's free bike share program to explore the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails on two wheels. The trails are wide, flat, and paved, perfect for casually cruising around the park spotting wildlife.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is home to over 118 species, including giraffes, lions, capybaras, and primates. In addition to the zoo's many exhibits, there are also interactive animal encounters. Imagine how much fun it would be to pet a sloth or a play with a lemur! Afterward, stop in at the onsite restaurant Safari & Vine for fresh cuisine.
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
Take a short drive across the bay to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile. Not only will you get to climb the many levels of the battleship, but you’ll get to see war planes and explore the inside of a submarine as well! Experience what military life was like on the seas and in the air. The battleship is a great place to stop by on your way to or from Alabama's Beaches.
Watersports
Watersports
Tired of laying out in the sun, but don’t want to leave the water? Try out a water sport! Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the calm back bays or fly over the waves on a Jet Ski. For a unique and exciting look at the beach, soar above the shore on a parasail.
Shopping
Shopping
The Tanger Outlets are about 15 minutes from the beach and boast 120 brand-name and designer outlets. You can also visit the Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach to browse beautiful pieces from local Gulf Coast artists. Either way, shopping can be a nice escape when you need to take a break from the summer sun.
Gulf State Park Activities
Gulf State Park Activities
Love nature? Offering a daily schedule of events, Gulf State Park is a terrific family adventure to add to your summer vacation. Add the Nature Center to your itinerary and get up close and personal with some of Alabama's native wildlife, then stop by the Learning Campus for free and fun programs.
Adventure Island
Adventure Island
With putt-putt, rides, go-karts, and bumper boats, Adventure Island offers plenty of fun for all ages. Cool off on a hot summer day in the arcade or indoor glow golf course, or challenge your family to a round of mini golf or a race around the go-kart track.
Experience the Local Cuisine
Experience the Local Cuisine
The beach is only half the fun. The other half is the food! Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan offer a variety of family-friendly restaurants and outdoor dining spots. It can get busy in the summer, so check out these insider tips to some of the beach’s best restaurants. They’ll save you time and money!
GulfQuest Maritime Museum
GulfQuest Maritime Museum
GulfQuest is a must-see if you’re in the area this summer. One of the best hands-on museums in the south, this maritime museum combines learning and play in a unique way. Drive a cargo ship in a storm. Sit in the emergency center during a hurricane. Learn how sailors used to read the stars for navigation. Located an hour west of Alabama's Beaches, in Mobile, you may want to plan your visit for your drive in or out.
Sand &
Summer along Alabama's Beaches. Summer isn't just a season, it is a lifestyle.
Samantha Nelson
Samantha Nelson is a family travel blogger with Those Crazy Nelsons. She believes families need adventure. Follow Samantha to read about her adventures and to get her latest family travel tips and ideas.
